Family Medicine

Answer 2 Trigeminal nerve. Herpes zoster ophthalmicus involves the ophthalmic division of the trigeminal nerve, which is the most commonly involved cranial nerve dermatome.2 Complications of herpes zoster ophthalmicus may include conjunctivitis, keratitis, episcleritis, and anterior uveitis. Early diagnosis is important to prevent potential corneal involvement and loss of vision. Treatment of herpes zoster ophthalmicus includes antiviral therapy and topical steroid drops. Ophthalmology referral is needed in many cases. Herpes zoster can affect other cranial nerves, leading to cranial nerve palsies and limiting extraocular mobility, but this is less common. REFERENCE 2. Fauci AS, Braunwald E, Isselbacher KJ, et al, editors. Harrison’s principles of internal medicine. 14th ed. New York: McGraw-Hill, Health Professions Division; 1998. Click here to return to the questions

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